If you have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Alabama, you may qualify for federal disability benefits, Medicaid waivers, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs for 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with COPD, your condition must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. This means COPD must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. You generally need 40 work credits (20 in the last 10 years) for SSDI. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. The SSA reviews medical records, work history, and how COPD affects your daily life and ability to work[5].
In 2025, the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is 2.5%, so benefit amounts will be higher. The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for non-blind individuals is expected to rise slightly from $1,470/month in 2024, allowing you to earn more before benefits are affected[1].
In Alabama, eligibility for disability benefits is based on federal rules, but approval rates and wait times can vary by local office. Alabama also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities who need home and community-based services. For example, the Elderly and Disabled (E&D) Waiver Program requires meeting the nursing facility level of care and having income below $2,901/month and resources below $2,000[2].
If you are approved for SSI or SSDI, you may automatically qualify for Medicaid in Alabama. Some programs, like the E&D Waiver, require a separate application and may have waiting lists. Always check with the Alabama Department of Mental Health or Medicaid for the latest eligibility details[2].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Alabama residents can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how they work[3].
Report any changes in income, work, or health to the SSA and Medicaid to avoid overpayments. If you get too much, you may have to pay it back. Use the Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide for tips[8].
Alabama offers free benefits counseling for SSDI and SSI recipients. Contact the Alabama Department of Mental Health for help with work incentives and reporting changes[6].
If you need home care, apply for the Elderly and Disabled (E&D) Waiver. Services include personal care, respite care, and more[2].
Yes, if your COPD is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months. The SSA reviews your medical records and work history to decide if you qualify for SSDI or SSI[5].
For the Elderly and Disabled (E&D) Waiver, the income limit is $2,901/month and the resource limit is $2,000. Most SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid[2].
Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local office. You can also apply for Medicaid at the same time. Contact Alabama’s free benefits counseling for help[6].
The SGA limit for non-blind individuals is expected to rise slightly from $1,470/month in 2024. This is the amount you can earn before your SSDI benefits may be affected[1].
Services include case management, personal care, respite care, adult day health, home delivered meals, medical supplies, skilled nursing, and more for those who meet nursing facility level of care[2].
Yes, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. Work incentives like Ticket to Work help you keep benefits while working[5].
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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The state agency may take 6 to 8 months to decide if your condition meets disability criteria. Some conditions may qualify for immediate payments[4].
SSDI is for those who worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for those with low income and resources, regardless of work history[5].
Yes, Alabama offers free benefits counseling through the Department of Mental Health and Aging and Disability Resource Centers[6][7].
You have 60 days to request reconsideration. If denied again, you can request a hearing. Free counseling can help you appeal[6].
